The Maltese government has launched the 'Irrinova Darek' scheme, an initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in residential buildings within the Northern Region. Launched by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in July 2025, the scheme builds on the success of the 2022 pilot scheme in the Grand Harbour area. The initiative contributes to national and international renovation targets, particularly focusing on improving energy performance in homes.
The Authority is implementing the scheme through a structured five-year regional rollout, designed to ensure organised access across the Maltese Islands. The regional classification follows the definitions established under Legal Notice XIV of 2019, amending the Local Councils Act (Cap. 363), which defines the official regions. This phased and regionally aligned approach ensures that homeowners throughout Malta and Gozo have equitable access to the scheme in a transparent and orderly manner.
Objectives and Implementation
The grant scheme is open from 23 July to 31 August 2025, both days included. The primary goal of 'Irrinova Darek' is to support homeowners in undertaking renovations that significantly improve the energy performance of their dwellings. Eligible properties include those in towns such as Ħ'Attard, Ħal-Balzan, Naxxar, Mellieħa, Mġarr, Mosta, Imtarfa, San Ġwann and San Pawl il-Baħar. The scheme offers financial assistance covering up to 90% of renovation costs, with a maximum grant of €15,000 per household. An additional 1,000 is available exclusively for the installation of solar water heaters or heat-pump water heaters.
The first phase of the scheme asks only the interested party to register on bca.gov.mt by submitting a copy of the ID card number (front and back) and a proof of ownership of the property one is applying for such renovations.
To qualify, then homeowners must engage a registered energy performance assessor to evaluate their property's current energy status and propose measures that achieve at least a 20% improvement over and above the Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) benchmark. The renovations focus on passive energy efficiency measures, such as replacement of apertures, insulation of building envelope, roof, insulation of exposed floors and floors to unconditioned spaces, installation of renewable energy sources, draught control and improvement of airtightness, shading, installation and connection of second-class water systems, replacement of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems or parts of systems with more efficient systems or parts of systems, installation of energy efficient lighting or systems enabling the introduction of natural lighting and installation of biomass water heater, solar water heater or heat-pump water heater.
Significance of Energy Efficiency in Buildings
Improving energy efficiency in buildings is crucial for Malta's environmental and socio-economic objectives. Buildings are significant contributors to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. By enhancing the energy performance of residential buildings, Malta aims to reduce its carbon footprint, lower energy costs for residents, and promote sustainable development.
The 'Irrinova Darek' scheme aligns with Malta's Long-term Renovation Strategy 2050, which prioritizes the renovation of the worst-performing building. By focusing on energy efficiency first, the strategy seeks to address energy poverty, improve indoor comfort, and stimulate the green economy through job creation in the renovation sector.
Future Prospects
The Irrinova Darek scheme reflects the BCA's continued commitment to fostering sustainable development and economic resilience across Malta. By providing targeted financial support and incentivizing innovation, this initiative empowers individuals to invest in forward-thinking solutions that align with national priorities. As the scheme gains traction, it stands to play a crucial role in shaping a more robust, inclusive, and environmentally conscious economy for the years ahead.